In a recent move to ensure that everyone in Mountain View can see more clearly at intersections and driveways, the Town Council has passed a new ordinance that will have everyone seeing yellow…literally. This change involves that mystical zone called the Vision Triangle, a place where no car should be. The Vision Triangle is now officially 30 feet at street and alley intersections and five feet at driveways. By keeping these areas clear, we can make it easier for cars that are making turns to be better able to see oncoming traffic. No more will you need to consult with the Magic Eight Ball to know if you can pull out safely. (Reply hazy, Try Again)
What is the Vision Triangle you may ask? Imagine you are at an intersection, ready to make a perfect turn. Now, picture a giant invisible triangle that ensures you can see any oncoming traffic, with no pesky cars parked there to block your view. That’s the Vision Triangle. Think of it as a way to give your car a little more personal space.
How will I know where I can park in the future you may ask. The answer is actually very simple, and here is where the town gets colorful. Public Works will be painting certain areas of the curb a bright yellow. No, this isn’t a poorly thought-out art project, and no you are not in Oz. These areas of yellow will show where cars can no longer park, whether it is in the street or in the Right-Of-Way. These yellow curbs are intended to make it easier for everyone to know where not to park without having to carry around a tape measure. From now on, if you see a bright colorful curb, please just ease on down the road. Think of it as a parking guidebook, but way more fun. One that says, “Don’t park here, park there!”
So, aside from adding more color to our lives, what do these colorful curbs really mean you may ask? If you choose to park in a yellow zone your car may get a bit more attention than you want. Once we all have had a little time to get used to the new rules, a violation of the Vision Triangle can lead to a ticket. That is something nobody really wants. So, let’s all do our part to keep our streets safe, and our wallets a little more full.
We are asking all residents to join us in this colorful initiative. If you see us out painting, we hope you will give us a wave and a smile. We are trying to make the streets of Mountain View safer. Let’s keep those intersections and driveways clear, and enjoy the new splash of color in town.
